Forget the heart-shaped box of mystery chocolates this year. These chocolate-covered Valentine’s Day marshmallows are the sweet treat you didn’t know you needed. Fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows wrapped in a velvety coat of decadent chocolate? Yes, please! Whether you’re making them for someone special or just treating yourself, these homemade delights are a must for February 14th.
The information provided on this site is based on my personal experience living with alpha-gal syndrome. I consistently cite and link to expert sources, but nothing published on this site should be perceived as medical advice.
Alpha-gal sensitivities vary by person. You should understand your dietary restrictions, making any adjustments needed, and directing any questions to your physician.
Before being diagnosed with alpha-gal, I was obsessed with Trader Joe’s dark chocolate-dipped marshmallows. During the holidays, I’d switch things up with their festive version dressed up with bits of crushed candy cane. But, like most marshmallows, the regular chocolate-dipped marshmallows contain pork gelatin, an immediate dealbreaker for this alpha gal. And while the candy cane covered version uses vegan marshmallows, they sneak in carrageenan, another no-go for us alpha gals.
Thankfully, making your own chocolate-dipped marshmallows is ridiculously easy. Here’s how to make alpha-gal friendly chocolate-covered Valentine’s Day marshmallows that are just as delicious — if not better — than the store-bought kind.
In This Article
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Results: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a treat that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end confectionery.
- Customizable to Your Heart’s Content: From the chocolate you use to the toppings you add, you can tailor these marshmallows to suit any preference or occasion.
- Fun and Kid-Friendly Activity: Dipping and decorating marshmallows is enjoyable for all ages, making it a perfect way to involve the whole family in the kitchen.
- Impressive Edible Gifts: Packaged in a pretty box or bag, these homemade delights make thoughtful and delicious Valentine’s Day gifts.
Key Ingredients in Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows
Creating these delicious chocolate-covered Valentine’s Day marshmallows requires just a few simple ingredients: chocolate, coconut oil, and marshmallows. Here’s what you need to know about these ingredients to ensure your Valentine’s Day treats are alpha-gal friendly.
Chocolate
The star of our recipe is chocolate, which comes in dark, milk, and white varieties. If you have alpha-gal syndrome, choosing chocolate that aligns with your dietary needs is important.
Milk and dark chocolates are typically safe options if you can tolerate dairy. However, if dairy is off-limits, opt for dairy-free dark chocolate — just be sure to read the ingredient list carefully as some dark chocolates may contain milk. Brands like Enjoy Life use rice milk to offer semi-sweet mini chocolate chips that are dairy-free.
Coconut Oil
A small amount of coconut oil helps melted chocolate stay smooth and gives your chocolate-dipped marshmallows a subtle sheen. It is plant-based and generally safe for those avoiding mammalian products. Just be sure to use pure coconut oil without any additives that could cause a reaction.
Marshmallows
Traditional marshmallows often contain gelatin derived from mammalian sources (like pigs and cows), making them unsuitable for individuals with alpha-gal syndrome. While vegan marshmallows are an alternative, many brands use carrageenan, which can also be problematic for some alpha gals. I like to use Paskesz marshmallows. Because they are made with fish gelatin, this brand of marshmallows is generally safe for alpha gals.
Optional Toppings
Toppings add a touch of seasonal festivity to your chocolate-covered marshmallows. Consider the following alpha-gal-friendly options:
- Crushed Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, or peanuts add a delightful crunch.
- Shredded Coconut: Sweet and chewy with a hint of tropical flair.
- Sprinkles: Opt for vegetarian or vegan decorations to avoid animal-derived ingredients.
- Freeze-Dried Fruit: Bits of freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries bring a pop of color and a tangy contrast to the rich chocolate.
How to Make Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows
Making homemade chocolate-dipped marshmallows is easier than you might think! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a festive snack for kids and adults that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.
- Prep Your Workspace. Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and set it aside.
- Melt the Chocolate. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil. (I’ve provided three methods below.) Stir until smooth.
- Dip in Chocolate. Dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip back into the jar before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Toppings (Optional). While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle on your favorite toppings like crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or vegan sprinkles.
- Let the Chocolate Set. Let the marshmallows sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, about 30 minutes. For faster results, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
How to Melt Chocolate for Dipped Marshmallows
There’s more than one way to melt chocolate for dipping, so you can choose the best method for your time and tools. Whether you prefer speed, control, or a hands-off approach, here’s how to get perfectly smooth, melted chocolate every time.
- On the Stovetop. Use a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Be sure the bowl doesn’t touch the hot water, then add the chocolate chips and stir occasionally until melted and smooth.
- In the Microwave. Microwave chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each to prevent scorching.
- In a Slow Cooker – Add chocolate chips to a slow cooker on low and stir occasionally until thoroughly melted, about 1–2 hours.
Storing Leftover Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows
To keep chocolate-covered Valentine’s Day marshmallows fresh, once they are dry, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. In warmer environments, refrigeration is an option, but you may want to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating so the chocolate and marshmallows soften.
For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Homemade Valentine's Day Marshmallows
Equipment
- Fork
Ingredients
- 1 10- ounce bag of chocolate chips (I used dairy-free dark chocolate chips)
- 1 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 8- ounce bag of large Paskesz marshmallows
- Optional Toppings (see notes above and below)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Set aside.
- Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a 12-oz. glass jar using your preferred method above. (My go-to is the microwave method.)
- Insert a long wooden skewer into one round end of a marshmallow. Dip it approximately halfway into the jar of melted chocolate, and then let the excess chocolate drip from the marshmallow.
- Touching only the undipped portion of the marshmallow, carefully slide the marshmallow off the skewer and insert it into the chocolate dipped side of the marshmallow. Dip the other half of the marshmallow into the chocolate so that the marshmallow is fully covered in chocolate. Gently shake any excess chocolate from the dipped marshmallow.
- Holding the skewered marshmallow up, gently slide a dinner fork under it to remove it from the skewer and place it on the parchment paper.
- Repeat until all marshmallows have been dipped in chocolate.
- If using toppings, sprinkle them over the marshmallows.
- Let the marshmallows sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets, about 30 minutes. Place your chocolate-dipped Valentine’s Day marshmallows in the fridge for about 15 minutes. to speed up the process
Notes
- I’m a big fan of dark chocolate, and I don’t need to add sugar to my favorite chocolate chips. However, if you want your chocolate-dipped Valentine’s Day marshmallows to be sweeter, add a tablespoon of granulated sugar or honey during the melting process.
- If you still find dark chocolate too bitter, even after adding sugar, add a little salt to the melted chocolate.
- Get creative with toppings! Crushed freeze-dried fruit, finely chopped nuts, or sprinkles add texture and flavor. Just be sure to use vegan or vegetarian sprinkles to avoid animal-derived ingredients.
Nutrition
Please Note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated. It should only be used as an approximation.
